Unraveling the Connection Between Zeke and Eren in Attack on Titan

The Attack on Titan finale has left the anime community with a mix of emotions. Written and illustrated by mangaka Hajime Isayama, this series held the audience's attention with its captivating and intricate storyline.

Finally, the recent finale of Attack on Titan marks the end of the titan world, at least for now. It delivers the much-anticipated answers to the unexpected shift of protagonist Eren Yeager from hero to villain, satisfying the fandom's long-standing curiosity.

Attack on Titan: Zeke and Eren’s relation

Throughout multiple installments of the final seasons of Attack on Titan, Marley and its titan holders, particularly Zeke Yeager, play significant roles. Zeke was of utmost importance in Eren's scheme to unleash the Rumbling. Now, an intriguing element arises: Eren and Zeke bear the same surname, prompting the question of a potential familial connection between them.

Grisha's photo from the basement (Image via Wit Studio)

In order to address the confusion of new fans or those still uncertain, it is important to provide an explanation regarding the relationship between Zeke and Eren. Although the series has previously unveiled the answer, let us delve into the episodes that suggest and ultimately disclose their connection.

Are Zeke and Eren related?

In episode 56 of Attack on Titan season 3, titled The Basement, Eren, Mikasa, and their fellow scouts embark on a mission to investigate Grisha's basement. It is believed that crucial information about the titans' mystery is hidden there. To their surprise, they stumble upon a photograph concealed in a secret drawer. Accompanying the photograph is a note left by Grisha, revealing that humanity survives beyond the walls of Paradis. The photograph depicts Grisha's previous family, including Dina Fritz (the smiling titan) and their son, Zeke Yeager. However, at that time, neither Eren nor Zeke were aware of each other's true identities.

The revelation

Zeke discovers Eren's true identity (Image via Mappa)

In Attack on Titan season 4 episode 15 (episode 74, titled Sole Salvation), there is a flashback scene where Zeke discovers the true identity of the Founding Titan holder from Reiner and Bertholdt. After learning Eren's name, Zeke becomes intrigued and asks about his father. Bertholdt then reveals that Eren's father used to be a doctor. This revelation leads Zeke to realize that he and Eren share the same father, making them half-brothers. Motivated by this newfound connection, Zeke is determined to save his little brother, whom he believes is also a victim of their father.

The Yeager brothers finally confront each other in episode 18 of season 3 (episode 55, titled Midnight Sun), where Zeke discloses their familial connection to Eren.

Eren and Zeke’s relationship as brothers

Continuously, Zeke held the belief that his father, Grisha, was a loathsome character, regarding him as a parent who had failed and was accountable for all the distress and emotional damage that plagued his formative years, ultimately leading to the collapse of their family. Zeke maintained a strong conviction that Eren was destined to endure a similar fate.

When Eren declined Zeke's proposition for Eldian euthanasia, Zeke firmly believed that their father's influence played a significant role. Nevertheless, Zeke remained steadfast in his determination to save his younger brother and free him from the alleged manipulation of their father.

Zeke and Eren during Eren's early years (Image via Mappa)

In Attack on Titan, final season part 2 episode 4 (episode 79) titled "Memories of the Future," Zeke and Eren delve into Eren's childhood memories to expose Grisha's manipulative actions. However, Zeke is taken aback when he discovers the changes in Grisha's behavior towards his second family.

Despite everything, Eren remains indifferent towards his older brother and shows no signs of compassion. He straightforwardly tells Zeke that he cannot fulfill his hopes of sharing childhood experiences because Zeke is not free, but rather burdened by his past as a grown man. This highlights Eren's clear lack of concern for his older brother.

Editor's P/S

Attack on Titan's finale has left fans with a mix of emotions, but one thing is for sure: the connection between Zeke and Eren is one of the most intriguing aspects of the series.

As a fan, I was captivated by the way their relationship developed over the course of the show. From their initial meeting in the basement to their final confrontation in the Paths, it was clear that these two characters had a deep connection.

Even though they were on opposite sides of the war, they still had a bond that could not be broken. I think that this is a testament to the power of family, and it is something that I will never forget.